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Anyone have any thoughts on pros and cons of the above? I'm looking for something aggressive to complement my Hardy M-1 on distorted guit. overdubs, but it'd be nice to have something to use on drums and, y'know, other stuff. I've never heard anyone say anything bad about APIs, and they've always sounded good to me, but I'm interested if anyone can compare 'em to the TG-2. Thanks! -E

I don't know.
but have you checked out the Brent Averill API clones? Ive heard really good things about them and they are affordable. They are also compatible with the API lunchboxes or you can get a box from Averill Enterprises.

check it out here

blessings
naissuryrgnaehtleahcim

I'm actually looking at the Averill 2ch. rack pre, but thanks! -E

If your going to be spending that kind of cash, I'd say go ahead and get the legit API stuff. It's worth it, if at least for marquee value alone...

I mean, the real deal API gear isn't that too much far off price-wise from the other API clone stuff, so why not get the real thing?

cal wrote:If your going to be spending that kind of cash, I'd say go ahead and get the legit API stuff. It's worth it, if at least for marquee value alone...

I mean, the real deal API gear isn't that too much far off price-wise from the other API clone stuff, so why not get the real thing?

'Cause it'll cost me an extra $500 (lunchbox) that I don't really have and don't care to spend (I'm not sure I want enough API gear to fill a whole lunch box). But maybe you're right; if I can afford the TG-2 and power supply, then I can get the API and lunch box. I just wish they'd make a 2 channel pre. Or maybe I should wish I could afford the 3124M+. -E

tell you what...

I have never heard any of the clones, but I can tell you that the next bunch of money that I get will be invested in a API7600. I used it on Damo Suzuki (from Can) and Sage Francis (The Rapper) in the same week, and it is head and shoulders above any preamp that I have ever used (I also used it on guitar, rhodes and bass in the same week...and with the right mics, holy shit!).

Yeah.

6.dos
www.13stars.org

sixtoo wrote:tell you what...

I have never heard any of the clones

You've never heard of Brent Averill? He doesn't do clones, per se; he racks old API console pres. Dozens of people (that I know of) swear by his shit. The point is, I'm not sure if I'd get more mileage out of an API or Chandler, which was the original question. -E

Yes, of course I have heard of Brent Averill...I just havent heard any of his clone units with my own ears. Excuse my grammar. I'm one of those lazy folk. I did hear the TG1 unit, and it is also very very good, although it didn't seem quite as "out front" as the Api stuff, if you know what I mean.... I didn't use it for any great length of time so I couldn't give any real assessment of the unit. Good luck.

Rob.

sixtoo wrote:Yes, of course I have heard of Brent Averill...I just havent heard any of his clone units with my own ears. Excuse my grammar. I'm one of those lazy folk.

Your grammar is fine; I see my reading comprehension is weak.

sixtoo wrote:I did hear the TG1 unit, and it is also very very good, although it didn't seem quite as "out front" as the Api stuff, if you know what I mean.... I didn't use it for any great length of time so I couldn't give any real assessment of the unit. Good luck.

Rob.

THat comment is pretty useful; the whole thing's a crapshoot, so your comment, cobined with my friends who dig the BA API suggest the (cheaper) API is the way to go. Fear not; I will research more. Thanks! -E

I don't think the Brent Averill stuff are "clones", though. From my understanding, it's advertised as API modules manufactured from original parts, which to me says that the folks over at Averill might have put their own twist on that design. I've heard the Averill stuff and it sounds fine to me. I've heard and used the real API stuff and that sounds fine to me also. I haven't messed with the Chandler pres, though, but I've used their EMI compressor and was really impressed. If you're looking to save money, you should probably go ahead and get the Averill modules. If you're looking to have something in your rack that actually says "API" on it, then get the real API stuff if you have the money and are concerned about marquee value and resale value. Considering how much Neve stuff is worth these days, I think the legit API gear is a steal, new or vintage.
You know, it's not that difficult to arrange to have different pieces sent to you to try out. I personally don't like to use paying sessions as a laboratory to sit there and try out a bunch of gear, but if you have the time, make some calls and have them send you a unit to try out, then just mess around with it for a few days before you make your decision.